Delinquent Utility Bill Information for Landlords and Tenants

Due to some ongoing misconceptions between the electric utility, landlords, and tenants, the Borough has released two informational letters discussing the manner in which delinquent utility bills can best be addressed.

If a landlord or tenant has not already received the information, they can do so by checking the Borough website or a hard copy may be obtained directly through the Ellwood City Municipal Building.

Bob Villella, the Borough Manager warns that electric services can be terminated in the winter with exceptions only made for qualifying medical conditions, an authorized payment plan, or if the tenant or resident qualifies for LIHEAP. In the absence of these arrangements while there is an interruption in occupancy and a utility bill remains outstanding, the landlord may be liable for the outstanding balances.

Tenants have the option to receive financial help if applicable via LIHEAP or by entering into payment plans with the Borough, however, landlords should acknowledge that their tenants qualify for LIHEAP and that they may be responsible for delinquent bills. Also, if a tenant wishes to enter into a payment plan with the Borough the landlord must authorize the payment plan.

“Sometimes things come up and people need help – most landlords are understanding and agree to allow their tenants to utilize the payment options,” Villella stated, “our goal is just to make everyone aware of their rights to avoid conflict and misconception.”

Villella says that he recommends if a tenant qualifies for assistance they should notify their landlord to discuss the possibility of receiving the help, he also suggests that before a tenant decides to rent from a landlord there should be prior discussion about the landlords views on the tenant receiving financial assistance through LIHEAP or payment plan options.

To learn more about important payment information for tenants, click here.

To learn more about important payment information for landlords, click here.